US citizens' re-entry process at JFK Airport accelerated via implementation of cutting-edge facial recognition technology
Travel in the modern world is moving towards biometrics, with advancements showcasing that biometric data might be the way of the future in air travel. From CAT-2 scanners to the emerging EES system, biometrics are playing a significant role.
American Airlines is hopping on this bandwagon after being the first airline at JFK Airport to implement the new Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) facial recognition system, partnering with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Diane J. Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP, stated, "CBP is driven to enhance national security, all while simplifying legal travel. By employing advanced technologies and mobile apps, we are transforming airport inspections into a continuous, contactless process, allowing for faster risk identification and efficient processing of legitimate visitors."
What Exactly is EPP?
EPP, short for Enhanced Passenger Processing, is a novel biometric screening system that pairs a real-time image of the traveler with their passport photo, expediting re-entry into the United States. This system offers a complete customs evaluation, including biometric confirmation, eligibility, and inspection before the traveler even reaches the CBP officer.
At present, EPP is limited to U.S. citizens, and participation is voluntary.
Airports with EPP
According to CBP, EPP is accessible for American citizens at:
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
- Cross Border Xpress (CBX)
- Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Dublin Airport (DUB)
As of now, JFK Airport remains unlisted in the official CBP announcement.
EPP at JFK Airport
American Airlines in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection has introduced EPP at JFK Terminal 8.
Advantages of EPP at JFK Airport
The EPP system presents numerous benefits, such as:
- Contactless and hassle-free
- Swift processing
- No pre-registration required (voluntary use)
- Compliance with security standards
- Contribution to airport modernization
Find out more about how U.S. Customs and Border Protection is developing time-saving tools here.
Interestingly, TSA also recognizes the need for travel efficiency at airport checkpoints - Avoiding the Loss of Your Items While Traveling.
- With the implementation of EPP (Enhanced Passenger Processing) at JFK Terminal 8 by American Airlines, travelers at this airport can now benefit from a contactless and hassle-free biometric screening system, which offers swift processing, compliance with security standards, and a contribution to airport modernization.
- As technology advances and data-and-cloud-computing plays a more significant role in various industries, including travel, the use of biometrics like EPP is showing promise in revolutionizing airport inspections. Furthermore, EPP's adoption by American Airlines at JFK Airport demonstrates the potential of this technology in improving vacationer experiences through a lifestyle that values speed, convenience, and security.
